Expanding your search beyond the typical tourist spots abroad reveals some hidden gems that will also save you a lot of cash.
You’ve seen it all in the USA and you’ve got an itch that only international travel can scratch…but when it comes to scratch, you’re a little light in the pockets right now. Tokyo and Paris will have to wait for another year, but you will not be denied. You don’t have to be. This world is full of inexpensive getaways that should fulfill whatever travel jones you’re having.
In compiling this list, we tried to strike a balance between travel, food & lodging costs and entertainment, recreational, and leisure expenses. Obviously it’s cheaper for those living on the east coast to visit Europe, so keep in mind proximity will vary. Also, while you can hitch-hike and stay in hostels, this isn’t about completely roughing it.
Puerto Rico
Oay, maybe you’re still technically in a U.S. territory, but that’s a plus since you won’t need a passport or lose any money in a currency exchange since they use the same money as the mainland. Old San Juan is perfect for anybody who wants to feel whisked back to the past, but not pay a premium to get there. Perfect for a two-or-three day getaway, there’s plenty to explore in the city at little-to-no cost although you’ll need to venture out of town for the best beaches.
Ecuador
You’ll be surprised how inexpensive flights from the Southern US are to the middle of the world. If you’re looking for natural beauty, there are few places that offer the wide-ranging choices of Ecuador, from its pristine beaches to towering volcanos to soothing hot springs and unlimited hiking and biking opportunities. Food is inexpensive and you can fill up on a $10 per day meal budget.
Bali
While it’s not cheap to get there, once you’ve landed, you’ll find everything is less expensive than similar island paradises. Our advice is not to hoard your money, but spend what you would have on decent accommodations and meals elsewhere, like Hawaii or Fiji, and go all out for the top-of-the-line amenities in Bali. If you want to live high class on a middle class income, the resorts, spas, restaurants and beaches of Bali are just what you want.
Mexico
The exchange rate is favorable and our neighbor to the south in ready to welcome our money with open arms. When plotting your adventure, considering locations like San Luis Potosí, Mazatlán or Puerto Escondido. Great hotel rooms can be had for around $50, there is nothing but natural beauty and unique culture, and perhaps most importantly, you’ll probably never pay more than $2 for a beer.
Albania
Have your heart set on Europe and it doesn’t matter where? The Balkans (Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina to name a few) range from the pricey Croatia to the downright inexpensive Albania, considered by most to to be the least expensive place to visit in Europe. A few days on the Adriatic coastline in small inns and quaint restaurants may be just what you need without breaking the bank.
Bolivia
It’s not the easiest country to get to or get around in, but Bolivia is an exciting, interesting and safe place to visit in South America. If you’ve ever felt the urge to stand on secluded salt flats as far as the eye can see in every direction or take a dip in the world’s highest-elevation lake, you can kill two birds with one stone in Bolivia. The food and accommodation prices are very reasonable and it’s another one of those places in the world that’s hard to meet a native person you won’t like.
